Waiheke is a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches, all just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland. In landscape, lifestyle and experience. The white sandy beaches at Oneroa, Palm Beach and Onetangi slope gently down into the Hauraki Gulf and are perfect for swimming, kayaking, or having a picnic.

If you love walking, explore the island’s trails which meander along cliff tops, down to the beaches and into cool enclaves of native forest. At the eastern end of the island the Stony Batter walkway leads you to a system of World War II gun emplacements and underground tunnels. 

Wai Kitchen

Before we started our winery adventures, we met up for some much needed eats. Going to a poke spot seemed like a great idea because we knew they would have a fresh catch being next to the water. I had the wai poke bowl with house king salmon- purple rice, slaw, tomato, edamame, corn roasted sesame sauce mayo, sweet soy sauce. Mmm mmm good!

New Zealand was absolutely incredible in so many ways. While we only spent a week in this country, we truly did so many activities to make it feel like we were locals. From Queenstown to a few detours in the mother nature areas, flying into Rotorua, and getting to know Auckland; there are an abundance of adventures to have if you’re feeling that wanderlust kick. The flight on the other hand was about 17.5 hours from Auckland to Dallas, Texas and then another flight to Miami. Let’s just say we re-lived the same day twice.

I even had to separate Queenstown’s eats and created a whole guide on New Zealand to help plan your next trip!

Travel with me on EF Ultimate Break too! I’ll give you the lay of the land here.

*EF is a travel group that plans trips all over the world. I’ve gone on a few trips with their groups in my lifetime because it’s a fun way of traveling with likeminded people around your age group, meeting travelers nationwide, and you don’t have to plan anything! I got to know so many tour directors and have made so many memories, that they gave me the opportunity to become an EF Ambassador. I even get to give you a special link as a first time traveler to get $100 per traveler you and your buddies go on! Just tap away here and find a trip that’s right for you. And if you have any questions, as always, let me know!

The post Top 3 Wineries in Waiheke Islands, New Zealand appeared first on Plane and Cheesy.

Something I never thought I would do but just had to do was a new “risk my life” kind of adventure. I had already flown out of a plane, which most of our friends were planning to do. And it was pretty darn expensive to do it in Queenstown, even with the USD being more favorable than the New Zealand currency. If I had to skydive again, I would do it in Ibiza or somewhere exotic.

Anyway, Ari and I wanted to bungee jump. We did it with a well-known company called AJ Hackett Nevis Bungy, Swing & Catapult. After much research, they pretty much owned all the adrenaline junky activities in Queenstown. They even have a lifetime discount after you’ve adventured with them once before, which is nice. We had other friends do different activities with them, so we pretty much all spent a morning risking our lives and then all hung out.

I think one of my favorite parts about Queenstown as a whole were its sunsets, besides the food, of course. I definitely did not try to wake up for the sunrise because it was quite chilly in the morning and I get cold easily. I know I’m a chicken, as my fiancé would say. We would walk from our hostel to the beach and sit on the pebbles to enjoy the view. The colors of the sky and everything just made it so much more special. It felt like a mix of the ocean with forest and mountains all in one view.

We even got to ride a gondola and luge in town. The views were amazing during sunset and a bit chilly on top!

Detour to Mirror Lakes, Cleddeau Valley, Milford Sound

Stopping at Mirror Lakes felt like I was in a Twilight movie- out in the woods, in the middle of nature, lots of fog, gloomy weather, and just an overlook into the wilderness. The bus dropped us off at the entrance and it was a one way to the exit.

Funny enough for this day in particular, our tour directors told us to “wear warm clothes,” which I totally ignored or had selective hearing for that comment, I guess. So when we arrived to the breakfast spot before Mirror Lakes, I needed something warm.

While everyone made a huge line in this one cafe, Ari and I walked a bit around town for something else. We ended up at a sandwich shop, which ended up working great because we had the other half of our sandwich for later. *Just call us smarty pants*

And I found a thrift store that I bought these sweat pants at!!! They were also basically $0.50 USD from the New Zealand currency exchange I looked up. I made my tacky outfit workout because my top was actually a t-shirt dress, and then I had a super light rain jacket on top, and of course, sneakers. WHAT A TIME!

Next stop was Cleddeau Valley! We found talking birds, river streams that were fresh and good for refilling your water bottles, and a FANTASTIC view!!! We were the first tour bus there, so it was nice to not have so many people photobomb our photos. We left just in time to make it to Milford Sound next for our boat day.

This was probably the first time we had a boat to ourselves! It was Ben’s and Justin’s group (the EF tour that stayed for both Australia and New Zealand). The lunch was provided and there was an opportunity for bar items too. Thankfully, I took my sweat pants off and was able to tan my legs a bit. Of course, we had to do the Titanic pose!!

the beauties of milford sound

january 11, 2023

A Day in Rotorua

Breakfast at Caper’s Cafe

Some of us needed energy in the morning, so we walked to breakfast before heading out to our adventures. I had something super small and a coffee with whip cream!

Polynesian Spa

This spa is known for its hot sulfur pools. Each pool ranged from 101 to 106 degrees. At the entrance, you have an option of borrowing a swim suit or using your own, because you had to wash your own right after the pool. We came prepared with tide packets to wash our swimsuit after.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Rotorua lies Polynesian Spa – a geothermal bathing and soul-soothing retreat, where you can experience wellness sourced from Rotorua’s very own backyard. Renowned for its healing waters and decadent spa therapies, discover why people have flocked to these waters since the 1800s. Waters from two natural springs are fed into the 28 mineral pools at Polynesian Spa. The slightly acidic Priest Spring relieves tired muscles, aches and pains while the alkaline waters of the Rachel Spring nourish skin. Wellness rituals include absolute lakeside hydrotherapy pools, heated recliners and a reflexology walk for the ultimate in relaxation.

Polynesian Spa

Legend has it that the sulfur water can cure anything: arthritis, stress, even a hangov— um… common cold.

Mitai Māori Village

Māori culture is an integral part of life in Aotearoa, New Zealand. For millennia, Māori have been the tangata whenua, the indigenous people of Aotearoa. Arriving here from the Polynesian homeland of Hawaiki over 1,000 years ago, the great explorer Kupe, was the first Māori to reach these lands. Manaakitanga is all about welcoming guests and providing great hospitality, something which all New Zealander’s pride themselves on. Make the connections between our past, present and future by embarking on guided experiences.

New Zealand

Kaitaki Adventures at Mount Tarawera

Into wild, natural experiences and fantastic scenery? We experienced the unique landscape and history of Mountt Tarawera. Infamous for its eruption on June 10th, 1886, Mount Tarawera created the world’s youngest geothermal valley of Waimangu. We participated in a fully guided walking experience encompassing the unique landscape and history of the area. With unmatched scenic vistas and 360 panoramic views, the trip was a total of 4.5 hours.

Volcano hiking was pretty scary because it was all downhill but it was also fun because, ya know, I got some rocks in my shoes. So I felt like a kid the whole way. I think being afraid of heights doesn’t help, but it was something I really wanted to take part in. Ashley helped me gain confidence as she walked next to me and made sure I didn’t fall forward… which would not be exciting. *Thanks Ashley!*

It was pretty chilly in morning but got warm later on. So I suffered a bit in the morning. ALL GOOD!

The colors of the craters were amazing! The erosion back in the day created a hole within the volcano so that was a site to see. We had pros from the Kaitaki Adventures lead the whole way through and they were so kind to us. I absolutely loved the hike and would recommend this company!

Hobbiton

Hobbiton is home to some of the series’ most famous hobbits like Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, and the Hobbiton Movie Set is where many scenes were filmed. Today, it’s one of New Zealand’s most famous tourist attractions.

Jackson first began the nine-month construction at the Alexander family farm on Buckland Road in 1999, thanks to the emerald rolling hills untouched by 20th century clutter such as roads, buildings, or power lines. 37 hobbit holes were created and The Mill and double arch bridge were built.

The Insider

Fun fact for you— if you want to stay on site, you can book a stay in Hobbiton. You would have to book a two-night minimum. They cost 10 New Zealand dollars (just over $6 USD) per night— in honor of the 10th anniversary of the first movie in The Hobbit trilogy.

hobbiton movie set

a day in the life of a hobbit

What it was like in Auckland

Cookies from Mrs. Higgins

Pit stop to a sweet spot. I feel like I need to have something sweet in each city I’m in, so Mrs. Higgins will do! The cookies were the perfect amount of moist and a much needed snack. Very fresh!

Ending the Trip at Brew on Quay

This was where our farewell dinner took place. We booked the elevator seated area in the restaurant on the first floor. It was nice to sit with everyone together for one last time and of course, enjoy a free meal on EF! We also had a mini photoshoot behind the brick wall of the restaurant.

On the other side of Auckland, we traveled to three wineries in Waiheke Island. That was worth its own post though. We even had to go on a ferry to arrive to the island for our last stay in New Zealand. Stay tuned for that!

No wine-ing here… let’s have a grape time!

PS We stayed at Nomad’s Queenstown Hostel | 5/11 Church Street, South island, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

PSS We stayed at Sudima Hotel Lake | 1000 Eruera Street, Central, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand

PSSS We stayed at Auckland City Hotel | 157 Hobson Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

*EF is a travel group that plans trips all over the world. I’ve gone on a few trips with their groups in my lifetime because it’s a fun way of traveling with likeminded people around your age group, meeting travelers nationwide, and you don’t have to plan anything! I got to know so many tour directors and have made so many memories, that they gave me the opportunity to become an EF Ambassador. I even get to give you a special link as a first time traveler to get $100 per traveler you and your buddies go on! Just tap away here and find a trip that’s right for you. And if you have any questions, as always, let me know!

The post A Mini Guide through New Zealand’s Beauties appeared first on Plane and Cheesy.

MORNING VIBES

Cafe Marmolada

I found this coffee shop on a whim after our adventures in the morning because Ari went to go get a tattoo and I hung around for a bit but really wanted to explore too. So before closing, I entered this shop and grabbed myself a bit of energy before heading back.

Cookie Time Bar

THE HYPE WAS REAL! This spot reminds you that being a kid is the best thing ever, minus the long lines at every time of the day. What’s better than cookies and milk? All the different types of cookies I can have with milk!

Maybe the excitement is just a tourist thing, but it was something to check out.

IT'S A BURGER TOWN

Devil Burger

We were hungry and this place was right next to our hostel. We wanted something quick but not too filling. The atmosphere was open concept and they had some pretty interesting options. I normally will order burger related foodie items, but I went a different route in ordering fish. FISH! Who orders fish at a burger restaurant?! Today’s the day to start something new, I guess!

Fergburger

This burger joint was recommended by our tour director, Ben. It’s one of his all time favorite burger spots too. They made it with so much love… and grease. Ari and I took them to eat at the beach by the best sunset/ sunrise spot in town. It was like a little picnic on pebbles. I believe we ordered the classic burger.

GET A LIL MEX CUISINE ON THE WAY

Taco Medic

When I tell you this was the only taco spot in town… let’s not taco ’bout it. The owner told us that he had traveled all over and wanted to recreate tacos in Queenstown specifically. Being originally from here, there weren’t lots of cuisines like there are all kinds of tourists. He traveled through California/ Mexico areas trying to find the perfect combos of tacos to be able to recreate them in his hometown.

They make their own tortillas! The spot opened in 2015 as a food truck, then opened up as half the size of the restaurant we sat in. As he grew, he added a window and table to the hole in the wall. And now it’s transformed to a taco bar spot with outdoor seating. Pretty neat and quick growth!

Little Mez

While on our walk in town, we came across an underground Mexican related bar. Of course, I HAD to have my spicy margarita. YUM! We sat in the high tops for a bit and just talked for our last night in Queenstown.

END UP AT THE BARS

Smiths Craft Beer

Let me tell you a story about this place.

Most of our friends were already here and working on their beers. I get to the bar with three other girls wanting to order and we get asked for our ID’s. Mind you, in a foreign country, your ID is your passport… something you don’t want to be carrying often in case of rain, pick pocketers, and all.

We didn’t want to cause a scene, even though I probably would have because that’s discrimination for not asking everyone else in the bar for their passports too. So, four of us had to walk our butts back to the hostel in the rain to grab our passports and come back.

Let’s just say that it was quite the experience!!!

The World Bar

Who can say they drank alcohol out of a whole tea cup? We did!!!

We even got our long islands in these tea glasses and were so excited. Drinking out of those made everything more fun. Then my friends left, we started dancing, and I danced with the other group. I loved it and loved the vibes!!!

We basically ate way too much of everything in Queenstown. It’s the little things in life, because we hadn’t seen a taco place in two weeks and we found a hole in the wall in this city. Ari and I were SO excited to have some hispanic cuisine. Funny enough, it’s the only taco spot in the city!

Check out the Adventure capital and the rest of new zealand in my next guide!

PS We stayed at Nomad’s Queenstown Hostel | 5/11 Church Street, South island, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

*EF is a travel group that plans trips all over the world. I’ve gone on a few trips with their groups in my lifetime because it’s a fun way of traveling with likeminded people around your age group, meeting travelers nationwide, and you don’t have to plan anything! I got to know so many tour directors and have made so many memories, that they gave me the opportunity to become an EF Ambassador. I even get to give you a special link as a first time traveler to get $100 per traveler you and your buddies go on! Just tap away here and find a trip that’s right for you. And if you have any questions, as always, let me know!

The post Learning Queenstown’s Cuisines One Meal at a Time appeared first on Plane and Cheesy.

Bondi Beach

We split into two groups– those learning how to surf and those with a bit more practice. My group learned with 1:1 time with the instructors to get to know our strengths/ weaknesses. In retrospect, paying AUD $70 for surfing was worth it. The other group learned by putting their knowledge to the test– the hands-on experience, if you will. If you are interested in surfing, ask for someone willing to teach you, answer your questions, and help you throughout the few hours you are paying for. That is truly what made it worth the time.

Fish Bowl

Picture poke bowls on the beach… *Chef’s kiss.* They had great options too!!! We got the miso salmon, with a brown rice base, and the “OG with sushi rice base.”

The Gap Park, Watson’s Bay

Our tour guide told us about a story of one of the residents, Don Richie, who moved into the home across the cliff decades ago. Through the years, he would see locals and tourists commit suicide on the cliff across his home. Being from a military background, he felt brave to speak to these individuals long enough to invite them over to his humble abode. Mr. Richie would invite them for tea and talk out their feelings, in turn, saving them without them knowing.

Throughout Don Richie’s lifetime, it became evident that his impact would have these people come back and thank him for saving their lives. It was said that more than 164 locals and tourists were saved because of his generous act of inviting them for tea. He passed away in 2012 and lived a rewarding life. Those people will never forget him and still visit the area to commemorate Don Richie.

Watson’s Bay is a mostly residential area with recreational areas and beaches, including Camp Cove and a legal nude beach at Lady Bay. Some restaurants, cafes, and a hotel are located here. The coastal walk with ocean views of the Gap along South Head makes Watson’s Bay a popular tourist attraction in Sydney.

Gap Park

Other places we visited:

• Opal Museum
  • Opal is Australia’s stone
  • 95% of opal in the world is found in Australia
  • Black opal is the rarest
• Queen Victoria Building – QVB Mall
  • Located in the Sydney Central Business District
  • Built in 1898 and designed by 28-year-old architect, George McRae
  • Built as a monument to the long-reigning monarch

Let’s Talk Foodie

One of my favorite spots was a last-minute girl’s dinner at the Opera Bar. We thought we needed reservations, but apparently, they do not have that. We got lucky with a spot I found in perfect view of the Opera House when the sunset came in. The weather was perfect too!!! As for the food, while there were not many options, the portions were large. I think the best time to come would be for sunset. The photos were immaculate!

OPERA BAR

outdoor restaurant

Close to the Hotel

Sushi Ichi Bar

A hole in the wall for sure! We all love seafood, so a few of the girls from the EF group went into this sushi spot to share a meal. It was a tight space, but the quality of the food was great. I got miso soup and the Ichi beef aburi roll.

Betty’s Burgers

This burger joint is hard to miss!!! They have so many around town and each has that diner feel inside. It is adorable– from the branding to the decor inside to the colors they used for packaging– very much thought out! We sat upstairs to enjoy the view. of town, ate burgers and drank milkshakes, and enjoyed each other’s company. If you are a Miami native or even visiting my hometown, imagine Big Pink in Miami Beach with two floors.

Momma’s Bar & Kitchen

One of EF’s favorite dinner spots for the group turned into memories with Ben’s group. We reserved our meals in advanced to make sure it was all ready by the time we arrived at this Italian joint. I ordered the Sex on the Beach cocktail, ate the mushroom risotto, and for dessert had the tiramisu and chocolate mousse. Everything was delicious and homemade.

Bars and Speakeasies in Sydney

Cargo Bar

We went around town to explore Ben’s favorite three-floor bar in Sydney to dance the night away. The first floor was part indoor and outdoor; the second floor was where the lounges were; and the third floor was the rooftop area (closed for the rain). There may have been a little Bad Bunny playing too… Thanks, Ari!

Earl’s Juke Joint

If you know me, you know I have to go to some type of speakeasy on my trips. This one was specifically a butcher’s shop turned into a jazzy dinner spot. It had all the New Orleans feel to it, which the dim lights, jazz music playing, and the small candles as center pieces.

Stitch Bar

THIS SPEAKEASY WAS AN EXPERIENCE! There was a country vibe walking in, and stairs to walk down to the bar with little reading booths. Lots of old town newspaper-style decor. I loved this speakeasy more than the previous one because it just felt more like the vibe I was looking for. It was also well recommended by our tour guide!

We had so so much fun in Sydney! It felt like the city life Miami. or Chicago are, but we went to Biondi Beach and hang around town. Mostly the best of both worlds. The transportation was easy to use and it was free from the Beach to the hotel. Sadly, this was our last stop in Australia…

We’re flying into Queenstown, New zealand next– the adventure capital!

PS We stayed at IBIS Budget Sydney East | 191-201 William St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, Australia

*EF is a travel group that plans trips all over the world. I’ve gone on a few trips with their groups in my life because it’s a fun way of traveling with like-minded people around your age group, meeting travelers nationwide, and you don’t have to plan anything! I got to know so many tour directors and have made so many memories, that they gave me the opportunity to become an EF Ambassador. I even get to give you a special link as a first-time traveler to get $100 per traveler you and your buddies go on! Just tap away here and find a trip that’s right for you. And if you have any questions, as always, let me know!

The post Loving All of Sydney, Australia in a Few Days appeared first on Plane and Cheesy.

Magnetic Island is well known for its distinctive environment and picturesque landscape featuring large granite boulders, hoop pines, sandy beaches and fringing coral reefs. The story of Magnetic Island began 275 million years ago when molten granite was pushed to the earth’s surface with volcanic force.

There are so many things to do on Magnetic Island, but nothing beats actually getting out on the glistening blue water that surrounds it. Sailing is the island’s ultimate mode of water transport.

With such a stable climate and pleasant day and night temperatures, Magnetic Island is enjoyable to visit at any time of year. While January to March will have an increased likelihood of some tropical rain, it comes with warm days and beautiful balmy tropical evenings.

Magnetic Island National Park

Billabong Sanctuary

01.

GET TO KNOW

The Billabong Sanctuary is an 11-hectare wildlife sanctuary by Townsville. Bob and Del built Billabong Sanctuary literally from the ground up, and developed the park into an award-winning eco-tourism attraction.

02.

FUN FACTS

It’s 27-acres and opened to the public in March of 1985. There are wombats, koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles, dingoes, and more. We were able to feed the friendly kangaroos and wallabies, and take photos with koalas.

Welcome to A I R L I E B E A C H

We went on a fun outing on banana boats to arrive at WhitSunday Island quickly. Ari and I sat front row on the way to the island, and hid in the back of the ocean raft when we were driving back. I loved that our drivers kept up with the speed of the ocean’s waves, they did some donuts in the water, and there were lots of splashing in the making of this trip.

PS if you’re someone who doesn’t do well with the motion of the boat/ raft, make sure you’re prepared with motion sickness pills or something that may help. Someone in our trip suffered from it, but for as much as we tried to comfort him, the pills would have worked better. But the $135 AUD outing was definitely worth it!

Enjoy some of our WhitSunday Island and more snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef photos…

Also might have held a non-stinging jelly fish in the making of one of these photos. *We learned about it with the marine biologist excursion in Cairns.* If the jellyfish do not have tentacles, they are safe to hold/ touch/ all things. The water was extremely clear. So that was helpful in spotting these fish.

Airlie Beach is well-known as a sailing destination, and for good reason. The WhitSundays area is home to some of the best sailing conditions in Australia, with gentle breezes and crystal clear waters. There are many different operators that offer guided sailing tours and private sailing charters in Airlie Beach.

Great Barrier Reef

Here’s Ben’s group!!!

All the names of our group were (left down to right down): Ben, Lauren, Maya, Emma, Quinn, Sam, Liv, Carly, Greg, Melanie, Tori, Shubert, Ashley, Ashley, Daniel, Kiera, Meg, Brandon, Elizabeth, Vera, David, Rianne, me, Dylan, Ari.

We had a blast with all the water activities!! Definitely enjoyed my salty hair waves too.

Let’s head to Sydney now… how exciting!!!

PS We stayed at Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville |  334 Flinders St, Townsville QLD 4810, Australia

PSS We also stayed at Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach | 240 Shute Harbour Rd, Cannonvale QLD 4802, Australia

*EF is a travel group that plans trips all over the world. I’ve gone on a few trips with their groups in my lifetime because it’s a fun way of traveling with likeminded people around your age group, meeting travelers nationwide, and you don’t have to plan anything! I got to know so many tour directors and have made so many memories, that they gave me the opportunity to become an EF Ambassador. I even get to give you a special link as a first time traveler to get $100 per traveler you and your buddies go on! Just tap away here and find a trip that’s right for you. And if you have any questions, as always, let me know!

The post Visiting Townsville and Airlie Beach in a Day appeared first on Plane and Cheesy.

I think we did more adventure-based activities in this town and honestly, they did not disappoint. The spots we ate at were high quality foods and larger portions than we, Americans, are used to.

Perrotta’s at the Gallery

My friend ordered the fish tacos, and they were probably more fish than taco. They were HUGE! I opted for my normal gnocchi, because if I’m at an Italian restaurant, you best believe I will order gnocchi pasta. Although, I would prefer white over red sauce, but I’m in it for the experiences… am I right?!

Fresco Juice Bar

We had walked all day and ended up at this plaza of stores and foodie spots. This juice bar made me miss home with the tropical vibes, so I felt like I just had to go. I even ordered a mango shake! T’was very well blended, of course!

Toast Sandwich Bar

It was more a sandwich/ coffee shop type place in my opinion. There were lots of healthy options too! I have this newfound love for beats… it’s really weird. I normally just eat them for Thanksgiving though, so I thought I would explore it again. Here I go with my extra healthy everything sandwich- beats, shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, lettuce, and diced tomatoes (bottom right). It was actually so so good!

Rattle ‘n Rum

This is one of those places you really think about why they named it that… and I really could not figure it out for the life of me. We ordered all kinds of meats! And it was well worth it. They were also doing happy hour, so it was essentially BOGO on wine. And guess where I was driven to… the sauvignon blanc. I would like to PSA to the world that Liv got me into ordering only this wine if I had a thought about ordering or purchasing wine. So here we are.

Dundee’s

This was one of those places where we just wanted to splurge on ourselves and have a cute girls night! Ari and I met our people on the trip, and until this day, we still have mini zoom reunions.

Emma wanted to go to Dundee’s, so we did! It was right on the boardwalk, and we apparently needed reservations to sit. There happened to be a table outside, but the hosts warned us potential rain, so took the chance.

It rained. We were a bit soaked.

But we were champs and still wined and dined! Rain couldn’t stop us!!!

Note: just make a reservation if you want to eat here. I’m sure the inside was better anyway… We just have a story to tell later.

Churro Time

You need to stop what you’re doing and visit this stop by all means. These churros were freaking AMAZING! The caramel dip, *chef’s kiss* and just the overall yummy goodness were worth sharing. It was the perfect combo of everything we needed post-dinner.

Note: I know Live, Emma, and Ari are probably going to kill me when they see this being published, but I just had to!

Other eats I’d do:

• Villa Romana Trattoria
• Evo Burger

It’s the Adventures for Me

Crystal Cascades

Crystal Cascades is one of the secrets of Tropical North Queensland. A secluded freshwater swimming hole hidden in a tropical rainforest, it has a series of small waterfalls that flow into large pools. Park facilities include electric BBQs, picnic tables and a toilet block.

Explore this 1.9-mile out-and-back trail near Cairns, Queensland. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 57 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, running, and walking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring.

Cairns Regional Council

Port Douglas & Mossman Gorge

We experienced this Australian national park through the eyes of the aboriginal population: the Kuku Yulanji tribe. We passed the pipe with our aboriginal hosts and accepted the smoking ceremony, as per tradition. We learned lots about their tribe!!

Fun facts we learned:

• The rainforest is their pharmacy, university, living space
• There aren’t any crocodiles up there, so we’re safe
• Smoking ceremony is connected to him (our tour guide) and the forest
• The man-made tent takes boys/ young men 2-3 weeks to build and elders only 1 ½ weeks
• Charcoal is used for teeth whitening, while the yellow or orange clay is used for mosquito repellant
• Women use this green sarsaparilla plant to heal. There are only about 350 species in the world to help that pain and swelling
• Afterlife tree is featured in the Avatar movie (the blue people, not Ang) as the glowing tree
  • Where tribes take their people once they’ve passed on and wrap them with the green leaves to make sure they’re in the afterlife properly
• Fungi color codes as bioluminescent where they want what path to take while hunting, just walking, etc
• Punishment for men- hit collar bones with the wooden panel, and for women- banish from tribe
• There are four different kinds of cedar trees in the forest and they’re each about 200 years old

PS Bring bug spray to help with the little critters. I’m allergic to mosquitoes, so you know that’s always wonderful in the great outdoors.

We went into the Great Barrier Reef not knowing what to expect. They took us on a ferry to reach our destination. While I thought it was smart to go into the sun all day with a halter top bathing suit and two french braids, I was SO wrong. I got a major tan… even though we had the stinger suits on. But thankfully, it was the beginning of the trip, so I had time to even out my tan later on. And we got major crispy on our heads, so we were battling dandruff from our heads for a good portion of the trip because our scalp was SO burnt. I definitely recommend adding sunscreen to your scalp if you’re going in braids and just wear lots of sunblock in general. There’s also a sunscreen that’s reef safe, so I would look into that if that’s the excursion you want to go on. Next time- ponytail please!

Also, to give perspective on stinger suit sizes- we didn’t have google to figure out what kg meant in lbs. So I am a size 4 in the stinger suit and I’m 5’9″, and my normal shoe size 9 in my duck feet, aka fins for snorkeling. And the goggles were for half your face. Just make sure you grab the child or adult, depending on your face size. Most probably adult for all adults.

THE GREAT BARRIER REEF

the world’s largest collection of coral reefs

Cairns was so much fun! Because of the snorkeling we were able to do as an excursion, I think this was definitely one of my favorite cities in the whole trip. The excursion wasn’t really worth it for $35 AUD, since the only “extra” part we got to do was swim away from the lines with a marine biologist and learn about the fish/ coral life. Everyone else snorkeled anyway and got sun burnt.

Why don’t you join me in the next cities: Townsville & Airlie Beach? Sea you there!

PS We stayed at Ramada by Wyndham Cairns City Centre | 6/12 Florence St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia

*EF is a travel group that plans trips all over the world. I’ve gone on a few trips with their groups in my lifetime because it’s a fun way of traveling with likeminded people around your age group, meeting travelers nationwide, and you don’t have to plan anything! I got to know so many tour directors and have made so many memories, that they gave me the opportunity to become an EF Ambassador. I even get to give you a special link as a first time traveler to get $100 per traveler you and your buddies go on! Just tap away here and find a trip that’s right for you. And if you have any questions, as always, let me know!

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